I have to tell you, I have experienced some pretty cool things and seen some incredible places. Some of my favorite places have been Alaska, France, and England and, of course, the locations I shared a couple of weeks ago in my 5 Favorite Cruise Ports post.
Today I thought it might be fun to share with you my least favorite cruise ports. Now, let me preface this by saying that I realize that I am extremely fortunate to be able to travel and this is, in no way, me whining. I should also say that none of these places are absolutely terrible, and it was impossible for me to come up with 3 places that weren’t spectacular. In fact, all of these places are actually nice, as I’m sure anyone who has visited them would agree, they just don’t rank high up on my list.
Alright, enough with the disclaimers. Let’s get the ball rolling, shall we?
My Least Favorite Cruise Ports
Atlantis, Nassau, The Bahamas
Nassau
I’ve been to Nassau six times and it grows on me more and more each time. This gorgeous island in The Bahamas is dotted with stunning beaches and a plethora of things to do. Nassau is a haven for tourists…which is actually why I don’t love it. For me, Nassau is far too crowded. Visiting the Straw Market is a nightmare due to the number of tourists that are jam-packed in such a small space. Will I return to Nassau? Absolutely. In fact, I’ll be there in 6 months time. The key to enjoying Nassau is getting away from the crowds. [7 Things for Cruisers to do Within Walking Distance in Nassau]
Stingray City, Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman
Again, I actually like quite a bit about Grand Cayman. The island features a lovely Sea Turtle Farm and phenomenal beaches. This is also a fantastic location for snorkeling and scuba diving. On one visit, I took a boat out to Stingray City where I got to swim with stingrays which was totally cool! The key to enjoying Grand Cayman is to get out and do things. If you stay around the tourist district you’ll just wander in and out of shops all day. Grand Cayman has a lot to offer. I do strongly recommend skipping paying for a trip to the tourist trap that is known as Hell. It’s not even worth a second thought.
Mahogany Bay, Roatan
Mahogany Bay/Roatan
If you’re a regular to 5 Suitcases you may be surprised to see Mahogany Bay on the list especially since I also included it in my Top 5. You see, although Mahogany Bay and Roatan are essentially the same places, they couldn’t be more different. Carnival develops many of its ports as destinations by putting in a ton of stores, restaurants, and bars and putting in an idyllic beach. Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Costa Maya, and Mahogany Bay are all prime examples of this. I have to admit, Carnival has done an amazing job with these projects. However, it’s not authentic.
When I first started visiting Roatan there was nothing. Literally nothing. We were greeted at the port by guerrillas brandishing machine guns. Many people turned back, but we forged on and got to see how gorgeous the authentic Roatan really is. The only reason I dislike Mahogany Bay is that most visitors will not go beyond Carnival’s secure walls and discover how fantastic the island truly is.
The people of Roatan are some of the most pleasant, welcoming people you will ever meet. It’s a shame that many people will never get a chance to experience this simply because they remain at Mahogany Bay.
Did you know that gold has played an important part in Aruba’s history? Aruba’s name roughly translates to “there was gold”. On the north coast of the island resides the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, a remnant of the island’s Gold Rush.
The Gold Rush of 1824
During the 1700s the Dutch explored the Caribbean in search of gold and treasures hidden by the Spanish. They explored Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao but left disappointed.
Fast Forward to 1824 when a twelve-year-old herder discovered gold ore in the hills of Rooi Fluit. Almost immediately, gold became an important part of Aruba’s history from 1824 until about 1916. Nearly everyone on the island sought out the precious metal. However, what they found had to be sold to the government at a fixed price.
The fever died out in 1830 however, new gold veins were discovered in 1854. Afterward, locals were prohibited from digging for gold. A Dutch Company had exclusive rights for digging on the island before changing hands to American and English companies.
The island produced more than 3 million pounds, in total.
The Bushiribana Gold Mill
The Aruba Island Gold Mining Company built Bushiribana in 1874 to extract gold from the ore that was being mined in the hills nearby. The limestone mill was designed to look like a fort in order to intimidate potential pirates.
Eventually, in 1916 during World War 1, the Aruba Gold Mining Company decided to cease all operations on the island. The digging never resumed.
Visiting the Mill
Although it costs nothing to visit and explore the Bushiribana Ruins, you may want to visit with a tour guide. There are no guides, information pamphlets, or even signs that explain the history of the site. Everything is just kind of left open for you to interpret.
The views from the mill are absolutely remarkable. This is definitely one of Aruba’s most photogenic locations!
Visiting the Mill is a must, especially if you’re already in the area visiting the Aruba Ostrich Farm, the Small Natural Pool, or the Ayo Rock Formations.
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Cumberland Island is one of the places that I will never grow tired of visiting. The Cumberland Island National Seashore is the largest of Georgia’s Golden Isles. The island features sugary white sand beaches, marshland, and stunning forests. It is world-known for its population of wild horses that inhabit the island.
The island is known for being the home to important families including James Oglethorpe, the Carnegie family, Revolutionary War hero Nathanael Greene, and for being the site of JFK Jr’s wedding.
Getting to Cumberland Island
Cumberland Island is only accessible by boat. There is a ferry that leaves from St. Marys, Georgia. The Cumberland Queen Ferry runs three times a day from March to September and twice a day from October through November. During the months of January and February, the ferry runs twice a day but only leaves Mondays through Thursdays.
The National Park Service limits the number of visitors to 300 per day. Campers may remain on the island for up to one week.
Getting Around Cumberland Island
Coleman Avenue, Cumberland Island
Plan on doing a lot of walking while visiting the island! There are no paved roads or trails on the island and the use of vehicles on the island is limited to private residents, contractors, and National Park employees.
One way many visitors choose to get around Cumberland Island is by bicycle. Bikes are allowed on the ferry for a $10 fee, but space is limited. You can also rent bikes on the island for $16/day. Bikes are only permitted on certain parts of the islands (you’ll see signs). Several spots on the island are hard difficult to navigate by bike because of the thick sand.
On our most recent visit, we hiked just over 7 miles and we stuck to just the southern tip of the island!
What is there to See on the Island?
The Ice House Museum was once one of the original Carnegie service buildings. Today the small museum houses original artifacts (and replicas) from the island’s prehistoric, colonial, early-American, and Gilded Era history.
Dungeness Ruins, Cumberland Island
Dungeness Ruins, Cumberland Island
The crown jewel of Cumberland Island are the Dungeness ruins. James Oglethorpe (founder of the colony of Georgia) first built a hunting lodge on the island in 1736. He named the lodge Dungeness.
Afterwards, Revolutionary War hero Nathanael Greene acquired 11,000 acres of the island in exchange for a bad debt. He moved to the island with his wife, Catharine Littlefield Greene. After his death, she built a four-story tabby mansion over a Timucuan shell mound. During the War of 1812 the British, who occupied the island, used the house as a headquarters.
In 1818, Major General Henry “Light-Horse Harry” Lee, a Revolutionary War hero and father of Robert E. Lee, came to the island and stayed in the Greene house until his death later that year. He was buried in the Greene-Miller cemetery. The home was abandoned during the Civil War and later burned to the ground.
Light-Horse Harry Lee's grave stone
In the 1880s, the property switched hands again when it was purchased by Thomas M. Carnegie, brother of philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. He built a 59-room Queen Anne style mansion and grounds which he also called Dungeness. After his death, in 1886, his wife Lucy continued to live in the mansion and built other estates on the island for her children including Greyfield, Plum Orchard, and the Stafford Plantation. The Carnegies owned 90% of the island. The family moved out of Dungeness in 1925 and the home was burned down in 1959.
The historic district comprises of the main house, servants quarters, utility buildings, laundries, cisterns, and other structures like the Nathanael Greene home.
Nathanael Greene's House, Cumberland Island
The beach on Cumberland Island is absolutely stunning! There is sixteen miles of white sand that wild horses roam alongside sea turtles and horseshoe crabs.
While most day-visitors tend to stick to the south end of the island, there are other sites on the island. These include Greyfield (now the Greyfield Inn), and Plum Orchard.
The 5-6 hour long “The Lands and Legacies Tour” will take you to the north end of the island and visit sites such as Plum Orchard and The Settlement where John F. Kennedy Jr got married in the First African Baptist Church.
Things to Know Before Visiting...
There are no stores and very few amenities on the island. You’ll need to pack in and pack out everything that you’ll need for a day trip. Pack in and pack out means that you’ll need to take it with you when you arrive, and take it with you when you leave. Even garbage cans are hard to come by on the island!
Make sure to pack plenty of water (more than you think you’ll need- especially during the hot months!), and lots of food and snacks. You’ll be surprised at how hungry you’ll get doing all of that hiking or biking!
Dungeness Ruins, Cumberland Island
To answer your question; yes, there are bathrooms on the island! There are 4 bathrooms available on the south tip of the island. You will find one at the Sea Camp Dock, one in the Historic District, one near Sea Camp Campground, and one by the Greene-Miller cemetery.
The Horses of Cumberland Island
Perhaps even more famous than some of the humans that have inhabited the island are the wild horses that now call this paradise home. Horses have lived on Cumberland Island since the 1500s. They were left behind when the homes and plantations on the island were abandoned.
Cumberland has the only herd of feral horses on the Atlantic coast that is not managed- no food, water, veterinary care, or population control.
Staying Overnight
Camping
Reservations for camping can be made up to six months in advance with a limit of staying up to 7 consecutive nights. Sea Camp is the most developed campground on the island. It is located half mile from Sea Camp Dock. There are four additional campgrounds on the island. A permit is required to camp.
Upscale Lodging
Thomas and Lucy Carnegie built Greyfield for their daughter, Margaret. The home was converted to an in in 1962 by her daughter Lucy R. Ferguson. The Greyfield Inn is the epitome of sophisticated, Southern charm.
What Should I Take With Me?
When you’re hiking, please remember to leave no trace! This means to pack out everything that you pack in and if you see trash, pick it up.
Backpack– to store all of your belongings Dry Bag– to keep your electronics and wallet safe, in case of rain (or kayaking) Trail GPS– the Garmin Oregon handled GPS works offline. You can view maps, waypoints, tracks, and trails even if you don’t have a signal. First-Aid Kit– this ultralight, watertight medical kit is a must if you’re hitting the trails! Sunscreen- yes, you can get sunburned in the forest. Insect Repellant Water Bottle– Always pack more water than you think you’ll need! Snacks
Hammock– I honestly pack a hammock on most hiking trips. Psh, I even bring them along with me when we go on cruises. There are plenty of spots in the forest to put up a hammock and chill out for a bit.
If you’re traveling with your pup, like we often do, be sure to bring along their leash, poop bags,a water dish (this one is collapsible), extra water, food, and snacks.
Madison Blue Springs- Voted America's #1 Swimming Hole
Madison Blue Springs is one of the first springs that I ever visited. The springs shockingly beautiful vibrant blue water and overall chill atmosphere is what drew me to visit as many springs as I could! The snorkeling, swimming, and paddling here is top-notch. There’s nothing quite like spending the day floating at the spring!
About Madison Blue Springs State Park
Madison Blue Springs was voted as the Number One Swimming Hole in the Country by USA Today. This instant family-favorite is a fantastic place to spend the day! It is popular for swimming, tubing, and cave diving.
What is there to do at Madison Blue Springs?
The park is well known for its swimming and diving opportunities. The first-magnitude springs are a great spot for snorkeling. Certified cave divers from all around the world come to explore the expansive underwater cave system. There are over 26,000 feet of underground passages.
The springs are also a great place for paddling. Visitors may launch kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from the river side of the spring. There is no vehicle access close to the river so you’ll have to tote your vessel about 175 yards from the parking lot. There are no rentals at the park.
Tubing is also allowed at the spring and adjacent river. Visitors must bring their own inflatable or rent one from a private vendor that operates within the park on weekends from May through September.
Madison Blue Springs State Park has a trail that follows the Withlacoochee River.
Visiting Information
Madison Blue Springs is a popular park from Memorial Day to Labor Day- especially on weekends and holidays. Plan on arriving to the park early as it will close when it reaches full capacity.
The park is open 365 days a year from 8 AM until sunset. The cost is about $5 per vehicle.
Location: 8300 N.E. State Road 6 Lee, FL 2059
Nearby Springs
Pot Springs (3.5 miles) Peacock Springs (38 miles) Royal Springs (42 miles) Troy Springs (50 miles) Little River Springs (49 miles) Turtle Spring (64 miles)
Something visitors need to understand about Florida is that alligators can be found in any fresh body of water. Our state is home to more than a million alligators that live in lakes, rivers, marshes, canals, springs, and even ponds at places like Disney and golf courses.
There is always the possibility of seeing an alligator in a fresh body of water. In fact, as Floridians we just assume that they are lurking arounding.
However, alligators don’t tend to like all of the splishing and splashing. Think of them as cranky old people. They’ll try to stay as far away from humans as possible.
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Awhile back I took to Instagram to ask my followers what their favorite Florida spring is. Many people responded that Gilchrist Blue Springs was their #1 choice. Obviously, we had to make the trek out west to check it out. Let me just say that it did not disappoint.
About Gilchrist Blue Springs
Gilchrist Blue Springs is Florida’s newest State Park. This means that even bigger and better things will be happening at this natural beauty. They are expanding the campground, building a bathhouse, and making road improvements. Of course, the highlight of the park is a large second-magnitude spring that pumps out 44 million gallons of water each day. The park is also home to Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring, and Johnson Spring.
What is there to do at Gilchrist Blue Springs?
Obviously the main attraction at the park is Gilchrist Blue Spring. We didn’t get a chance to check out the other springs (Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring, and Johnson Spring), but we will definitely scope those out next time!
The springs are a great place to canoe, kayak, paddleboard, swim, and snorkel. There are kayaks and canoes available to rent on the property.
We sure to wander past the ropes (if you have a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe). You won’t regret it!
Visting Information
The park is open from 8 AM to sundown, 365 days a year.
The cost is $4 to $6 per vehicle.
The park is located in Gilchrist County about 5 miles west of the town of High Springs and 25 miles south of Lake City.
Something visitors need to understand about Florida is that alligators can be found in any fresh body of water. Our state is home to more than a million alligators that live in lakes, rivers, marshes, canals, springs, and even ponds at places like Disney and golf courses.
There is always the possibility of seeing an alligator in a fresh body of water. In fact, as Floridians we just assume that they are lurking arounding.
However, alligators don’t tend to like all of the splishing and splashing. Think of them as cranky old people. They’ll try to stay as far away from humans as possible.
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Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitterfor more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!
**This post may contain affiliate links for your shopping convenience**
So you’re heading to Mexico, eh? LUCKY YOU! I’d love to help you with your Mexico packing list. The great news is Mexico has absolutely perfect weather so no matter what time of year you will be visiting you’re sure to have great weather. This also makes packing for a trip to Mexico a little easier.
Let’s Talk About the Weather
The climate in Mexico is tropical meaning that there is a wet season and a dry season. The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April. During these months, there is virtually no rain. On the other hand, the wet season lasts from May until October.
The temperature in all areas of Mexico ranges between 50°F and 90°F throughout the year.
Beach in Cozumel Mexico
The Nitty Gritty
If you happen to accidentally leave something at home, you can always head into the large cities to do some shopping. However, items are typically more expensive in Mexico, and you may not find the particular brand that you would at home.
Mexico Packing List Essentials
When you’re getting ready for Mexico, there are some things that you absolutely must have with you. All of these items should be in your suitcase, purse, and/or carry-on.
Passport
You absolutely must have your passport to travel to Mexico. If you are visiting as a tourist, you donot require a visa. Visitors planning to stay more than 6 months get a visa.
Driver’s License
Visitors planning to drive in Mexico will need to be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license or international driving permit in order to rent a car and/or drive around legally. If you have a US driver’s license do not worry, it is a valid driver’s license in Mexico.
Although the legal driving age is 18, some rental companies require you to be 25 years or older and you must have a drivers license for a minimum of 2 years.
Portable and Plug-in Chargers
Obviously, you’re going to be taking a ton of pictures on your trip. You most definitely are going to want to pack a portable power bank for your phone. While you’re thinking about chargers you better grab all of the chargers for your electronics: phone charger, laptop charger, tablet charger, smartwatch charger, and maybe even an electric toothbrush charger!
The Anker PowerPort Cube Power Strip has 3 outlets, 3 USB ports, and includes a 5-foot extension cord.
Mexico uses 127volts, 60 cycle electricity, which is similar to the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. Outlets rarely have 3 holes so if your device has a third prong, bring an adapter.
Camera & SD Card
Sure, you could just bring your phone along for photos but you’ll probably want to bring a legit camera along as well. I suggest a Nikon D5600 for high-quality photos. While you’re grabbing your camera, don’t forget our SD card! I travel with a 64 GB memory SD card. If you’re feeling wild, you can go for a 128 GB SD memory card.
If you’re planning on spending time at the beach, cenotes, or anywhere else on the coast you’ll probably want to have an underwater camera, as well. Those of you who will be using a phone as a camera, make sure you get a waterproof phone case. I take one of these with me on all of my trips to Central America and the Caribbean.
Cash $
It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. I would be careful about carrying around large amounts of money. I would suggest only having an equivalent of $100 (broken into small bills) on your person.
Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN). Some resort areas may accept USD however, you will most likely be charged extra if you are paying in USD.
Credit Cards
You will most likely be able to use your debit cards in Mexico. In fact, an easy way to access money while traveling is to use your debit or credit card in an ATM or cash machine in Mexico: you will receive Mexican currency, and your bank will withdraw the equivalent funds from your account plus a fee for the transaction.
Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops will typically be able to accept Visa and MasterCard. You could also use a credit card to obtain cash advances at major banks. I use a travel wallet to keep my passport, cards, and money safe in one place.
Travel Umbrella
If you’re traveling to Mexico during the wet season, you’ll definitely want to pack an umbrella. May through October are the wet seasons. I pack an EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella.
Sun Care
Trust me, there’s nothing worse than getting sunburned on a vacation. Plan on using a strong sunscreen to protect your skin. If you are hitting the reefs, you’ll want to pack coral reef-safe sunscreen. While you’re at it toss some Chapstick with SPF into your bag. You may also want to consider a hat and a sun shirt, as well. I always pack a bit of aloe with me on vacation- just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?
Mosquito Repellent
Mexico has a tropical climate so there are mosquitoes, bugs and other insects buzz around mostly in the early mornings and late evening. However, in most areas, most time of the year they are that not annoying.
You should always pack your necessary prescription medications in your carry-on bag. Make sure they are in their original containers.
El Castillo, Tulum, Mexico
What to Wear on the Plane to Mexico
Although you’ll be traveling to a tropical destination, you may want to dress a little more warmly on your flight. Since airplanes are typically cool, you’ll want to dress in layers. Consider wearing a tank top with a light sweater, a light hoodie, or a long sleeve shirt. I also usually don’t wear shorts on a plane because my legs tend to get cold.
Make sure you wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off and consider leaving your belt in your suitcase. If you plan on packing a large floppy sun hat, you may want to bring it on the plane so that it doesn’t get squished in your suitcase.
FUN FACT:
These adorable little cocktail sets are perfect for a drink on the go. Believe it or not, they are TSA compliant! They are great for travel days but also would be handy on an impromptu picnic!
Rio Secreto, Mexico
What to Wear During the Day
Keep in mind that the average temperature in Mexico is 84 degrees. It’s also typically super humid. Consider packing clothing that will be comfortable in this climate.
You’ll also want to consider what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re spending most of your time on the coast you’ll want to focus on coverups, bathing suits, and sandals. If you’re heading to the jungle and rainforest to zip-line or going to the ruins like Tulum or Chicken Itza you’ll want to pack activewear. I usually wear breathable yoga pants, a t-shirt, comfortable tennis shoes, sunglasses, and a hat when I hit the ruins.
The dress code in Mexico is super laid back. It’s cool if you stick with casual outfits.
Misc. Electronics
Kindle
If you don’t want to lug a guide book around, you may want to invest in a Kindle. These are a great alternative to packing physical books. They take up way less space! The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof making it a great option for travel.
AirPods
These headphones are MADE for travel. They are compact, lightweight, and recharge themselves when they are in the case. AirPods are great to have on the plane, train, or when relaxing by the pool or on the beach!
Tulum Beach
Other Items for Your Mexico Packing List
Scanned Copies of Important Items
It is always smart to carry a scanned copy of the information page of your passport. That way, if you misplace it it’s easier for you to get a replacement. Make sure you pack it in a different place than you keep your physical passport. You can also take a photo of it and store it on your phone.
Packing Cubes
Guys! Packing cubes are LIFE! They are the perfect way to keep your suitcase neat and organized. They have been a total game changer for me!
First Aid Kit
Raise your hand if you’re a klutz like me! Anybody? If you’re anything like me then you totally need to pack a first aid kit. I take one with me when I travel.
Guide Books
If you are a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you may want to pack along a guide book. I’m a Lonely Planet fan.
While You’re in Mexico
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Florida Springs Packing List- Did you know that Florida has more than 700 natural springs? That is more than any other place on Earth! From the largest springs (Wakulla Springs which is the largest and deepest freshwater spring in the world) to tiny trickles, the springs hold eight billion gallons of water.
Florida has 15 state parks that preserve the crystal-clear springs and the creatures that call these springs home. They also help protect the animals that call these springs home. Florida’s natural springs are home to manatees, otters, Florida gar, alligators, eels, turtles, and countless specifies of fish.
In order to make the most out of your visit, you need to pack a few essentials, plan accordingly, and be prepared to totally unwind. Our Florida Springs Packing List will help ensure you bring along the essentials!
Freshwater springs are the ultimate year-round Florida attraction. With Florida’s warm climate and the water temperature maintaining a constant 72 degrees, you can visit the springs 12 months out of the year.
In fact, the springs were actually Florida’s original tourist attraction. Long before people came to Florida to visit Disney World, Legoland, and Universal Studios, they hopped on steamboats to explore the waterways. Silver Springs was once one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire country.
Today, many of Florida’s springs offer swimming, snorkeling, diving, canoeing, paddleboarding, tubing, and kayaking in constant temperatures of 72 degrees. Many springs also offer hiking trails and camping.
Our kids love floating down the spring runs. The current slowly takes you from the launching point to the ending point. Once you get used to the cold water, it is extremely relaxing! Of course, you can paddleboard, kayak or canoe on top of the water to avoid getting wet, all together!
Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs also offer glass-bottom boat tours that give you a unique view of the springs and the animals that inhabit them.
As I stated above, the springs are a year-round attraction in Florida. During the winter months, hundreds of manatees flock to the springs. Since the water is a constant 72 degrees, it is warmer than the nearby rivers. Blue Spring seems to be a favorite for the West Indian Manatees. In fact, as many as 360 manatees were recorded at the springs on March 1st, 2020!
The springs are phenomenal year round! If you want a glimpse of the manatees, come during the winter (January and February seem to be peak times). If you want to kayak, canoe, or paddle board you can do so year round, but you’ll find it less crowded in the cooler months.
If you’re brave, you can swim year round. The water temperature is the same all year. Florida’s weather is really inconsistent in the winter. We can go from being in the 80s one day to the 50s the next. As long as you can handle the outside temperatures when you exit the springs, you can absolutely swim in the springs 365 days a year.
Are There Alligators in the Springs?
Something visitors need to understand about Florida is that alligators can be found in any fresh body of water. Our state is home to more than a million alligators that live in lakes, rivers, marshes, canals, springs, and even ponds at places like Disney and golf courses.
There is always the possibility of seeing an alligator in a fresh body of water. In fact, as Floridians we just assume that they are lurking around.
However, alligators don’t tend to like all of the splishing and splashing. Think of them as cranky old people. They’ll try to stay as far away from humans as possible.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride at Silver Springs State Park
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Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Twitterfor more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!
**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**
The beach next to the ship is perfect for snorkeling and swimming!
One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when planning your cruise is deciding when you’ll go. Cruises (traditionally) run 365 days a year- but some times of the year are better than others. There are things you need to take into consideration such as school breaks, hurricane season, and other factors. Join us as we explore the best and worst times to cruise.
Tulum Beach, Mexico
The Best and Worst Times to Cruise
January Through February
January and February are some of my favorite months to cruise. Since most of the ports have tropical or sub-tropical climates, the weather is absolutely gorgeous this time of the year. This is the perfect time of year to cruise if you live up north and want to escape the frigid winter temperatures.
The water temperatures are a tiny bit chilly, but you’ll adjust quickly and should be fun. Be advised that you can still get sunburned during this time of the year, so be sure to bring your sunscreen along.
Magens Bay, St. Thomas
March Through Easter
This is one of the most popular times for people to book a cruise thanks to Spring Break. I’ve been on many Spring Break cruises, and they really aren’t that bad. The crowds during this time tend to be younger- we’re talking lots of families and a ton of intoxicated college kids.
I will say I don’t sleep well on cruises during this time of the year because there are kids and drunkards running up and down the halls at all hours of the night.
This is also the beginning of peak season so expect the prices to be a bit higher and the lines to be a bit longer at the buffets. These cruises were fun when I was in my twenties however, now that I’m a bit older I tend to avoid cruising during this time.
Atlantis- Paradise Island, Bahamas
May Through August
Look, I get the appeal of booking a cruise during the summer. The kids are out of school, it’s the perfect weather for a day at the beach, and you’re guaranteed to get some color on your skin. Seemingly, this is the perfect time to cruise. However, believe it or not, this is my least favorite time to cruise.
“Why?” you might ask. There are fewer drunk college kids during the summer months, but more families. The pools, hot tubs, and food lines are swarming with young kids. There are children everywhere. And quite frankly, it’s rather annoying.
The weather in the Caribbean at this time of the year is dreadfully hot and humid, and this is coming from a Floridian. If you do choose to cruise during this time of year pack plenty of sunscreen and aloe and stay hydrated.
The prices this time of year are much higher, and quite frankly not worth it (in my opinion). At this time of the year, I’d much rather cruise to Alaska than to the Caribbean.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
September Through October
Many people shy away from cruising during this time of the year because it is the peak of hurricane season. Sure, there there is a chance of having to deal with a storm (more on that below) but to me, it’s a chance worth taking.
This is my favorite time to cruise! The weather is fantastic, the water is absolutely glorious, and the prices are lower.
Natural Bridge, Aruba
November Through December
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30th. The season tends to peak in September. Traditionally, this is when you’ll see the lowest cruise fares. Some people tend to steer away from traveling during hurricane season however, I’m not one of those people. Oftentimes, when there is a storm your itinerary will change a bit. I’ve had two cruise itineraries that were impacted by a tropical storm or hurricane. On the first one, we simply skipped a port and had an extra sea day. On the second one, we visited Grand Turk instead of St. Thomas.
Planning a cruise during the shoulder season, or off-season can help you save money on your cruise. Of course, you’ll see the highest cruise fares during holidays and cruising seasons. You’ll pay more money to sail during the December holidays as well as from late February throughout Easter, due to Spring Break.
Personally, my favorite months to cruise are September, October, January, and March.
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Did you know that Florida has more than 700 natural springs? That is more than any other place on Earth! From the largest springs (Wakulla Springs which is the largest and deepest freshwater spring in the world) to tiny trickles, the springs hold eight billion gallons of water.
Most of the natural springs in Florida are in the north and central regions- meaning that they make for great day trips from Orlando, Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, and Jacksonville.
Florida has 15 state parks that preserve the crystal-clear springs and the creatures that call these springs home. They also help protect the animals that call these springs home. Florida’s natural springs are home to manatees, otters, Florida gar, alligators, eels, turtles, and countless specifies of fish.
What is there to do at the springs?
Freshwater springs are the ultimate year-round Florida attraction. With Florida’s warm climate and the water temperature maintaining a constant 72 degrees, you can visit the springs 12 months out of the year.
The springs were actually Florida’s original tourist attraction. Long before people came to Florida to visit Disney World, Legoland, and Universal Studios, they hopped on steamboats to explore the waterways. Silver Springs was once one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire country.
Today, many of Florida’s springs offer swimming, snorkeling, diving, canoeing, paddleboarding, tubing, and kayaking in constant temperatures of 72 degrees. Many springs also offer hiking trails and camping.
Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs also offer glass-bottom boat tours.
13 Best Florida Springs to Visit with Kids
Three Sisters Springs- Crystal River, Florida
This park is home to absolutely crystal clear water. In fact, it’s so clean that you can see straight through it! Three Sister Springs is the perfect place to kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Due to the high population of manatees, there are no motorized water vessels allowed inside of the park.
If you want to view the springs without getting wet, you can walk along the boardwalk at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, which offers 57 acres of wetlands to explore.
Weeki Wachee Springs- Weeki Wachee, Florida
You won’t believe what makes this State Park so famous. Mermaids. Yes, mermaids! Weeki Wachee Springs is home to the world-famous mermaid show! The mermaids have been entertaining guests since 1947.
While you can kayak and canoe at the springs, swimming is not permitted. Don’t fret because the park is also home to Buccaneer Bay. Buccaneer Bay has white sandy beaches and water slides! If water slides aren’t your thing, you could also take a riverboat cruise.
Oh, and another cool thing about these springs? Weeki Wachee Springs has a bottom so deep that it has yet to be found!
Experienced divers can also explore the freshwater cave system that is the deepest in all of North America.
Ichetucknee Springs- Fort White, Florida
Ichetucknee Springs is one of the most well-known springs in the state. The Ichetucknee River is the ultimate place to grab an inner tube and simply let the current take you away. This no-frills adventure is fun for all ages. This is also a great spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
The park is also home to Blue Hole Spring. Trust me, this is natural Florida at its finest!
The main spring (a.k.a. the Ichetucknee Head Spring) has been deemed a national natural landmark and is home to many of Florida’s most precious wildlife species.
Wakulla Springs- Wakulla Springs, Florida
Wakulla Springs State Park is located just 15 minutes south of Tallahassee. This is the deepest and largest freshwater spring in the world! After being featured in classic movies such as “Tarzan” and “Creature from the Black Lagoon” this spring became a popular tourist attraction.
This is the place to spend the day swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Experienced scuba divers can explore the system of underground caves. Be sure to take the famous river cruise during your visit!
It has also been deemed a National Natural Landmark and a National Archaeological and Historic District.
Ginnie Springs- High Springs, Florida
Like Ichetucknee, Ginnie Springs are some of the most popular in the state. This is pure, natural Florida! The park boasts magnificently clear turquoise water that entices visitors to dive in. Snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and rafting are all popular here. To make things even easier, you can rent the equipment on-site!
Experienced divers can check out the caves.
Drinking is allowed at Ginnie Springs because it is privately owned, unlike other popular springs which are city or Florida State Parks. This means that it does tend to draw a more party-type crowd.
Madison Blue Springs- Lee, Florida
Voted the #1 swimming hole in the country by USA Today, Madison Blue Springs is considered to be one of the best springs in Florida. Head about 70 miles east of Tallahassee to this stunning blue, clear, freshwater spring. This popular swimming hole is 25 feet deep and 82 feet wide. You can hop on a raft to enjoy a float down the 150-foot run, or you can hop on a paddleboard or canoe to experience the springs from the water’s surface.
Like Three Sisters Springs, this is the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, and scuba dive. If you’re an experienced diver, you can even hit up some underwater caves!
Rainbow Springs- Dunnellon, Florida
Rainbow Springs is 90 miles northwest of Orlando making them the perfect spot for a day trip! These springs are more than 10,000 years old, making them one of the oldest and largest in the state! Native Floridians regularly visited these sapphire waters believing that they had healing powers. And, perhaps they do? The only way to find out is to get your toes wet!
Rainbow Springs State Park is a popular haven for tubing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and camping. There is a gigantic swimming area with white sand. The park is also home to nature trails that are surrounded by man-made waterfalls and natural gardens.
Alexander Springs
Alexander Springs- Altoona, Florida
Tucked away in the Ocala National Forest is Alexander Springs. This is one of the best places for families to visit because it is relatively shallow, gradient slow, slope eases swimmers into the stunning water.
Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. This is also a great spot for hiking and camping.
Silver Springs, Silver Springs, Florida
Hop aboard a glass-bottom boat for a unique view of the spring’s creatures, including manatees! Or, hop in the water for a bit of swimming and snorkeling.
You can also rent a kayak or a canoe onsite if you’d like to add to the fun!
The Silver Springs is located in Ocala National Forest and are a notable archeological site. Be on the lookout for fossils!
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day, as capacity is limited!
Gilchrist Blue Springs
Gilchrist Blue Springs- High Springs, Florida
Gilchrist Blue Springs is one of Florida’ youngest state parks. Located just 25 miles south of Lake City, this park is ideal for a day of snorkeling, swimming, and paddling. The park also has hiking trails.
This park is so much fun that it often fills up to capacity (okay…the fact that the park is smaller may have something to do with that, too). Plan on getting there very early or go late in the afternoon. Gilchrist Blue is considered to be one of Florida’s greatest hidden gems! If the park is full, we recommend heading to nearby Ginnie Springs. Ginnie Springs is larger so it is less likely to reach capacity.
Blue Spring- Orange City, Florida
Blue Spring is a state park located in Central Florida. What was once a hub for steamboats is now a winter refuge for manatee. Temperatures in the spring run remain at 72 degrees, year-round, making it a safe haven for West Indian manatee. In fact, as many as 360 manatees were recorded at the springs on March 1st, 2020! When the weather cools down, manatees congregate in the natural spring where the water temperature is warmer than in the surrounding areas.
This place is great for swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are also trails that you can hike or bike.
The Old Spanish Sugar Mill at De Leon Springs State Park
De Leon Springs- De Leon Springs, Florida
De Leon Springs State Parkis AMAZING! The site is a former plantation and fancy schmancy hotel. There are remnants of both periods of the properties history on the ground. De Leon Springs was one of the first eco-parks in the state of Florida. There are hiking trail, kayak and canoe rentals, and a swimming area.
The park is famous for its Old Sugar Mill Restaurant. People come from all around to make their own pancakes at the griddle-topped tables. It’s a super fun experience!
Salt Springs, Ocala National Forest
Salt Springs- Fort McCoy, Florida
Salt Springs is located in the Ocala National Forest. Most of the swimming area is actually quite shallow- once you get away from the entrance area. The park also permits floats, which makes the springs extra fun for kids! We found a cove across from the entranceway and it was the ideal spot for our littles. The closer you get to the spring vent, the deeper- and rockier- the water gets.
Are there alligators in the springs?
Something visitors need to understand about Florida is that alligators can be found in any fresh body of water. Our state is home to more than a million alligators that live in lakes, rivers, marshes, canals, springs, and even ponds at places like Disney and golf courses.
There is always the possibility of seeing an alligator in a fresh body of water. In fact, as Floridians we just assume that they are lurking around.
However, alligators don’t tend to like all of the splishing and splashing. Think of them as cranky old people. They’ll try to stay as far away from humans as possible.
Dealing with the Crowds
The springs get packed on holidays, weekends, and summer months. In fact, several springs often reach capacity early in the day. Plan accordingly. You may want to consider camping, if it is available, or staying at an Airbnb close to the springs so you can get there early.
For the least crowds, go during the off-season or shoulder season such as October or April.
Are you asking yourself, “Where should I cruise to?” One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when booking a cruise is deciding where you should cruise to. There are tons of options scattered all throughout the Caribbean. From the Bahamas in the northeast all the way down to Aruba in the very southern Caribbean.
The Caribbean is generally split into three regions: Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean. Each region differs primatrily by the departure port, number of ports on your itinerary, and the length of your trip. For instance, if you’re interested in going to the Southern Caribbean, you’ll probably want to/need to leave from Miami or Puerto Rico.
Caribbean cruises can range from 2-10 days (and sometimes even longer!) depending on the cruise line, departure port, and itinerary. It can be overwhelming to pick the itinerary for your family especially if you’re a first-time cruiser.
Where Should I Cruise To?
God of the Winds Temple, Tulum
Western Caribbean
The Western Caribbean is a popular selection for first-time cruisers. The ports have a more exotic feel than those in the Eastern Caribbean and are a bit less glitsy. Western Caribbean cruises typically feature destinations such as Grand Turk, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, or Costa Maya. The week-long cruises will often times visit Belize and Roatan, as well.
The Western Caribbean is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and beach bums. This is where you’ll find the Maya ruins of Tulum, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Chichen Itza, as well as many others. Snorkeling and diving are also top-notch here, especially near Belize and Mexico where you’ll find the Blue Hole.
Other popular excursions include off-road ATV adventures, catamaran rides, ziplining, and other cultural experiences.
Western Caribbean cruises tend to be a bit more budget-friendly. Due to the distance between ach port, you’ll typically have at least 2 full sea days where you can relax, enjoy onboard activities, or recover from your active days in port.
These cruises typically depart from ports in Florida, Texas, and New Orleans. The itineraries typically have 3 or 4 stops and last 7 or 8 days.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
Eastern Caribbean
Eastern Caribbean cruises often feature ports such as San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Tortola, Grand Turk, and The Bahamas. Itineraries typically range from the 5 to 7-night range, however, they can be shorter if you’re looking to just zip over to The Bahamas from Florida.
These cruises generally depart from ports in Florida or from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Ports of call on Eastern Caribbean cruises are some of the most popular ports so it’s not unusual to see 3 or more ships on the same day.
The Eastern Caribbean is full of colonial history, pirate history, shopping, beautiful beaches, and volcanic islands with lush green hillsides. These are easily some of the most stunning places in the Caribbean! What’s even cooler is many of these ports offer excursions that will take you to nearby islands such as St. John and St. Barths which are a bit more off the beaten path.
These itineraries are generally best suited for active travelers. Since the ports of call are fairly close to each other, you’ll often wake up in a new port each day. In fact, you may even need a vacation day to recover from your cruise!
The View from Shirley Heights Lookout, Antigua
Southern Caribbean
Last but not least, is the Southern Caribbean. These itineraries require a bit more time but trust me, they are totally worth it! Since the ports are further from the United States, the cruises tend to be in the 7+ day range and cost a bit more.
Cruises that venture to the southern Caribbean often feature Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, Grenada, Guadalupe, St. Kitts, and the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) on their itineraries. These ports of call have a distinct European charm to them.
Many cruises that hit these ports are out of Miami or Puerto Rico, so it is important to consider that when booking the trip, as well.
These ports are steeped in rich colonial history that is evident as you wander around the island. This is a prime location for scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining.
